CHRISTCHURCH — A Qantas passenger aircraft flying from Queenstown to Sydney was diverted to Christchurch after a suspected engine problem shortly after takeoff caused flames to appear from the aircraft’s left side.

The Boeing 737 was operating Qantas Flight QF122 on September 5 when passengers and people on the ground reported seeing repeated flashes or flames around one of the engines. Loud noises were also reported during the aircraft’s climb from Queenstown.

The flight crew responded by changing the aircraft’s planned route and heading toward Christchurch, where emergency services were positioned ahead of the landing. Flight-tracking information indicates that the aircraft reached Christchurch roughly 50 minutes after leaving Queenstown.

Qantas said the aircraft experienced a suspected engine issue but was able to continue operating safely. The airline confirmed that the aircraft landed without further incident and that its pilots were trained to manage situations of this nature.

The dramatic incident was captured by witnesses, with video showing bursts of light or flames around the left engine. The unusual sight caused concern among passengers and people watching the aircraft from the ground.

After landing in Christchurch, passengers were assisted with their onward travel arrangements. The airline also arranged accommodation and alternative flights for affected travelers while the aircraft remained in Christchurch for examination.

The precise technical cause of the engine problem remains under investigation. Aviation reporting indicates that the aircraft’s engines continued operating during the flight, meaning the crew was able to complete the diversion without an engine shutdown.

The incident highlights the importance of diversion procedures when an aircraft develops a suspected mechanical problem shortly after departure. Christchurch provided a suitable alternative airport, allowing the crew to bring the aircraft down safely rather than continuing the longer journey to Sydney.

Qantas is expected to examine the aircraft and determine what caused the unusual engine behavior before it returns to normal passenger service.